Things to Do in Windhoek

About Windhoek

Where the desert sun meets German colonial architecture and African tradition, Windhoek defies easy categorization. This highland capital rises from the Khomas Plateau at 1,700 meters, serving as both the crossroads of southern Africa and a city that pulses with its own distinct rhythm—part cosmopolitan hub, part gateway to wilderness, entirely itself. Here, contrasts don't clash; they create something unexpectedly harmonious.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: While major establishments accept cards, carry Namibian Dollars (NAD) in cash as many smaller shops, markets, and townships operate on cash-only basis; you can easily exchange South African Rand at 1:1 as both currencies are accepted interchangeably.

• Transportation: Taxis don't cruise the streets or use meters in Windhoek, so download ride-sharing apps like Lefa or arrange taxi pickups through your accommodation with agreed-upon prices beforehand to avoid overcharging.

• Water Safety: Windhoek's tap water is perfectly safe to drink and is actually some of the cleanest in Africa, so bring a refillable bottle instead of buying plastic water bottles throughout your stay.

• Shopping Hours: Most shops and restaurants close early (by 5-6 PM on weekdays and even earlier on Saturdays), with almost everything closed on Sundays, so plan your dining and shopping accordingly and stock up on essentials before the weekend.

When to Visit

When to Visit Windhoek, Namibia

The optimal time to visit Windhoek is during Namibia's dry winter season from May to September, when daytime temperatures range from a pleasant 20-23°C with clear cobalt skies, though nights can plummet to near-freezing 5-7°C requiring warm layers. October and November bring scorching heat (often 30-35°C) as summer approaches, making outdoor exploration uncomfortable, while December to March constitutes the rainy season with afternoon thunderstorms, humidity reaching 60-70%, and temperatures climbing to 28-32°C—though this "green season" offers dramatically lower lodge prices (often 30-40% discounts) and spectacular lightning storms over the surrounding mountains. April stands out as an exceptional shoulder month with post-rain greenery, moderate 24-27°C temperatures, and fewer tourists, coinciding with the Windhoek Agricultural Show if you're interested in Namibian farming culture. Avoid late December through early January when many local businesses close for summer holidays and South African tourists flood the city, inflating accommodation prices by 50% or more, though you'll catch the vibrant Windhoek Carnival street parade (typically late April) or the Windhoek Oktoberfest beer festival if timing aligns with your late-October visit.